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Chinese medicine is based on the principle that a life force known as Qi (pronounced chee) flows throughout the body on channels called meridians. When the body is in perfect health and harmony, Qi runs freely throughout the body. When a trauma occurs (such as an auto accident), the free flow of Qi is disrupted, causing pain and other symptoms.

Acupuncture is the process of stimulating specific points on the body by inserting very fine needles into the skin and underlying tissues. This procedure unblocks the flow of Qi along energy pathways and resores balance to the body. This has the effect of releasing various chemical messengers into the brain (neurotransmitters such as serotonin) that serve as natural painkillers.

Acupuncture can be used in the treatment of auto accident injuries, including whiplash and herniated discs. It is an effective tool in relieving the pain and anxiety associated with car crashes and is safe, painless, and drug free.

Acupuncture and Whiplash

Whiplash occurs when a sudden movement forces the head to jerk forward abruptly, pulling at the neck muscles and affecting bone structure and soft tissues. When left untreated, whiplash can lead to chronic pain that is often difficult to treat, so it is important to address the condition as soon as possible.

Whiplash can cause the following symptoms:

• Neck pain and swelling;
• Difficulty in moving the neck;
• Headache;
• Shooting pains from the neck into the shoulder or arm; and/or
• Muscle spasms.

In Chinese medicine, whiplash is thought of as a balance disorder because the structure of the bones has been affected by a sudden movement. Treatment focuses on helping patients regain proper balance. Acupuncture also works to alleviate the pain associated with whiplash.

Acupuncture for Herniated Discs

Herniated discs occur during auto accidents because the force of impact is often strong enough to damage the human body in very serious ways. The discs of the spine act as a cushion between the vertebrae. When a disc herniation occurs, the soft, inner part of the disc bulges or slips out of place, affecting the nerves and causing pain.

In this case, as with whiplash, the sooner acupuncture is begun after the initial onset of symptoms, the more effective it can be in terms of pain relief. While acupuncture cannot resolve the actual structural spinal condition, it is a powerful weapon in fighting pain. By stimulating the nervous system, acupuncture helps the body to release chemicals that ease pain. For herniated discs, results may be best achieved when acupuncture is combined with physical therapy.

Anxiety and Stress

The traumatic experience of an automobile accident can sometimes lead to powerful and negative emotions. Because accidents happen at a very fast pace, the brain is sometimes unable to process the experience until after the incident has passed and the participant is no longer in danger. This is known as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and it can occur in car crash victims.

The energy blockages associated with anxiety can be addressed through acupuncture. Acupuncture points serve as openings to the body’s meridians; when these are liberated from unhealthy blockages, energy can begin to flow smoothly once again. This can help to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety as well as relieve the anxiety disorder itself. The experience of acupuncture is often very calming, and can decrease heart rate, relax muscles, and lower blood pressure.

Monmouth Spine and Rehabilitation Center

Under New Jersey law, acupuncture is covered by the personal injury protection provided by your insurance policy. This coverage is available only when the treatment is administered by a certified practitioner. Our Red Bank, NJ facility offers New Jersey Certified Acupuncturists in the treatment of the physiological and psychological issues associated with auto accidents.

Please contact Monmouth Spine and Rehabilitation Center to find out more about how we can help.